ZIFA blamed for Mighty -Warriors COSAFA exit

Runodada Witness

ZimNow reporter

Zimbabwean national women's soccer team, the Mighty Warriors in a disappointing return from the COSAFA qualifiers pointed the blame to ZIFA.

Their failure to secure a spot has ignited widespread criticism directed at ZIFA. Coaches, players, and supporters alike are voicing frustrations over alleged mismanagement and lack of support from the country’s football governing body.

The core of the backlash centers on ZIFA’s failure to provide the Mighty Warriors with sufficient preparations ahead of the qualifiers. Unlike other nations, such as South Africa, which arrange frequent training camps and friendly matches for their women's teams, Zimbabwe’s preparation was minimal, leaving the players at a disadvantage. The absence of practice games left the Mighty Warriors underprepared, further diminishing their chances against well-prepared opponents.

Zimbabwean coaches have condemned the situation, expressing concern that without significant changes, Zimbabwe will continually struggle on the regional and continental stages.

"South Africa’s Banyana Banyana team is consistent in their dominance of regional tournaments because they understand the value of regular, competitive preparation,” said a senior coach familiar with Zimbabwean women’s soccer. "If ZIFA were serious about elevating the sport in this country, they’d be providing our team with the resources and planning they deserve."

Another coach added, "The current leadership doesn’t prioritize sacrifice; they prioritize themselves. We need leaders who understand that football is not just about personal gains but about national pride and inspiration for our youth. Otherwise, we risk losing generations of talent."

The Mighty Warriors' failure to qualify has been particularly painful for their fans, who remember the team's impressive past achievements. Supporters are calling for ZIFA to re-evaluate its approach, starting with enhanced investment in women’s football and robust training programs.

For the Mighty Warriors to regain their competitive edge, ZIFA must take meaningful steps. Stakeholders in Zimbabwean sports are now urging a structural overhaul of the country’s football administration. Without immediate reforms, critics fear that Zimbabwe's national teams will remain sidelined on the regional and continental fronts.